In Durance (for Beginners)

Leading up to the American War of Revolution (the War for Independence), the British and Commonwealth forces treated American combatants in a generally harsh - even inhumane way, largely ignoring the gentlemanly rules of combat with few exceptions.

During this period, especially difficult captured soldiers, militia and other fighters - spies particularly - were imprisoned on a ship that was no longer sea worthy but still afloat. These prison hulks would be beached on a sandbar some distance from shore, the sails, lines, cannons and other gear would be salvaged leaving just the hull as a steaming, stinking shell in the summer and a freezing coffin in winter with mortality rates in the 80th percentile.

These prisons were loathed across the Empire and between the cruel treatment and high death rates, there was little to lose in an escape attempt - death was hardly the worst outcome. One of the most notorious was the HMS Jersey, known as Hell by the inmates. The use of prison hulks was supposed to only be a temporary measure but persisted for 80 years. Many died of exposure, disease and malnutrition - there seemed a better likelihood of survival by trying to escape.

This is going to be a short one - opening scene, one scene to work together toward escape from the prison hulk, using whatever skills and resources are available. Possibly an intermediate scene to resolve conflict and possibly a twist, followed by the closing scene.The nature, strengths, weaknesses and other items are only provided as a sample-I would encourage players to create their own with logical limits.The players are normal people thrust into an abnormal situation, no power players, no undead, monsters or gods. I expect players to write only for themselves unless there is a discussion between players and agreement made. NPCs may largely be managed by players with some exceptions so revisions may be asked for. Players are welcome to add flavor and color including zero card moves.

The tone will be gritty and dark but should remain generally safe for work.

I can be reached (and response expected shortly) at Talionis@live.com. I am in the U.S., Mountain time. I get that real life happens, so if you’re going to be offline for more than a day or so let me know and I’ll keep things moving.